I’m B. Christopher Frueh (aka Christopher Bartley), Professor of Psychology, and This is How I Work

I write crime novels, direct a clinical and neuroscience research program at The Menninger Clinic, teach at the University of Hawaii, and work quietly with special operations personnel, both retired and active duty.

Location: Hilo, Hawaii and Houston, Texas (via a monthly commute).

Current Gigs: Crime writer (under the pen name “Christopher Bartley”); Professor of Psychology at the University of Hawaii-Hilo; McNair Scholar and Director of Research, The Menninger Clinic at Baylor College of Medicine; Consultant.

One word/phrase that describes your work style: Dogged

Current computer/mobile device: Apple

What apps/tools/software can you not live without?

Microsoft Word, iBooks, and the “Fly Delta” app. For the most part I do not like apps and use very few of them.

What’s your best time-saving shortcut or life hack?

Do something right the first time and you will not have to waste time fixing it later.

What’s your workspace set up like?

I carry a laptop with me almost everywhere I go because I have so many different workspaces (home, office, hotels, airplanes, conference rooms). As much as possible I prefer to work on a simple table with nothing else on it.

As for Ross Duncan, the protagonist in my book series, this is his workspace.

How do you keep track of things you need to do (any to-do-list apps)?

I make to-do lists on the back of napkins and envelopes mostly.

Besides your phone or computer, what gadget can’t you live without, and why?

My iPad because I read the Wall Street Journal on it every day and when I’m traveling it allows me to stay connected and carry a large number of books.

What everyday thing can you do better than most people? What’s your secret?

I make the best Old Fashioned cocktail and cook the best steak. Secrets are: always use the best ingredients, stay patient, focus, and make these the old school ways.

What do you listen to while you work?

When I am writing crime fiction, I usually listen to jazz (anything recorded before 1964), blues, or country music. While I’m working on anything else, I prefer silence.

What are you currently reading?

The Bible

After Dark, My Sweet by Jim Thompson

The Wall Street Journal

The Economist

How do you recharge?

One hundred wide-grip pull-ups or the Navy SEAL “deck of cards” push-up routine.

What’s your sleep routine like?

On a good night, I go to bed sober and sleep from 10pm to 6am. There aren’t many good nights.